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Staff Spotlight

JACK OF ALL TRADES

When Charles Ellis graduated from Auburn University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in 1980, he never imagined his work would eventually lead him back to his alma mater.

After working for companies such as Texas Instruments in Dallas and Honeywell in Colorado Springs, Ellis returned to Auburn's campus as manager of the Alabama Microelectronics Science and Technology Center Laboratory located in the university's Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.

The cross-disciplinary center, which investigates new concepts in microelectronics, is at the forefront of microelectronics research and education. Strong industrial and government support ensures that the research is responsive to the needs of these sectors and that the students that learn and work in the lab are well-prepared to move into the workforce.

As lab manager for more than 18 years, Ellis oversees the day-to-day activities in the high-tech labs -- a critical resource for researchers both on and off campus.  In addition to promoting and maintaining the facilities, he also teaches lab courses to engineering seniors and graduating students.

"Charles is phenomenal, bringing a unique blend of talent and work ethic to the table," says J. David Irwin, Earle C. Williams Eminent Scholar and head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. "He does whatever needs to be done and does it well, from repairing lab equipment to running classes.  He's a true jack of all trades."

Among his many tasks Ellis is currently working with partner universities on projects involving nanotechnology —activities at the level of atoms and molecules that have far-reaching applications. These include medical research on heart probes, artificial ear drums and headbands designed to prevent seizures associated with epilepsy.

"Nanotechnology is an area that will be increasingly important in the coming years," explains Ellis. "At Auburn, we are committed to remaining at the leading edge of this and other new technologies with the latest facilities, equipment and expertise."

Beyond the laboratory, Ellis shares his love of electrical engineering with a group of young students he holds in high esteem.  They reside at the Orphanage Emmanuel in Guaimaca, Honduras, a mission project established in 1989 by missionaries David and Lydia Martinez, which houses more than 218 children.

As a frequent visitor, Ellis uses his electrical engineering skills to make life at the orphanage better including a recent project to provide wireless Internet and voice-over systems that enable residents to make phone calls through the web.

"This is my passion in life," shares Ellis. "I love being able to use my skills in engineering to help make a difference in the lives of these children."